C10H18O5

C10H18O5, also known as citric acid, is an organic compound with the molecular formula C6H8O7. It is a weak organic acid, found naturally in citrus fruits. Citric acid is widely used in the food industry as a preservative and flavoring agent. It is also used in various industrial applications, including as a chelating agent in metalworking and as a pH adjuster in cleaning products. The compound has a molar mass of 192.12 g/mol and exists in the form of a white crystalline powder at room temperature. Its chemical structure consists of a six-carbon backbone with three hydroxyl groups and one carboxyl group. Citric acid is non-toxic and biodegradable, making it an environmentally friendly choice for many applications. It is also known for its role in the Krebs cycle, a key process in cellular respiration.